Network-based user identification

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein are system, method, and computer program product embodiments for network-based user identification. An embodiment operates by transmitting a discovery signal over a network, and receiving a response to the discovery signal from a mobile device coupled to the network. Based on the response it is determined whether the mobile device is within a threshold vicinity of the streaming media device. Which if it is, user settings corresponding to a user of the mobile device, which may also be a user of another device associated with the settings are determined. The other device is then configured based on the user settings.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/813,703 entitled “Detection Of A Mobile Device To Identify UserPreferences And Provide Customized Functionality Or Content”, filed Dec.3, 2015, which is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 14/813,703 entitled “Detection Of A Smart Phone To Enable Content”,filed Jul. 30, 2015; patent application Ser. No. 13/778,068, entitled“Method and Apparatus for Sharing Content”, filed Feb. 26, 2013; U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/966,576, entitled “User IdentificationBased On The Motion Of A Device”, filed Dec. 11, 2015; patentapplication Ser. No. 15/478,448, entitled “Interaction-Based UserIdentification”, filed herewith, and patent application Ser. No.15/478,413, entitled “Time and Content Restrictions Based onUser-Identification”, filed herewith, all of which are hereby expresslyincorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND Field

This disclosure is generally directed to network-based useridentification.

Background

In today's world, on-demand availability of content—such as movies, TVshows and music, to name just a few examples—is commonplace. But theelectronic and computerized storage and delivery of content offers thepotential for far more than just the availability and vanilla playbackof content. For example, through innovative use of technology, it ispossible to generate content recommendations that are tailored forindividual users, as well as to customize the viewing experience to eachuser's personal preferences. However, to generate useful recommendationsand customized the viewing experience for users, it would be helpful tobe able to accurately identify the user who is viewing or otherwiseconsuming the content at any given moment.

SUMMARY

Provided herein are system, apparatus, article of manufacture, methodand/or computer program product embodiments, and/or combinations andsub-combinations thereof, for using technology in innovative ways toprovide enhanced media streaming functionality, including automatic,accurate user identification.

An embodiment is directed to system, apparatus, article of manufacture,method and/or computer program product embodiments, and/or combinationsand sub-combinations thereof, for network-based user identification. Ina non-limiting embodiment, an apparatus, such as a streaming mediadevice, may transmit a discovery signal over a network. The streamingmedia device may receive a response to the discovery signal from amobile device operating on the network. The mobile device may beassociated with a user of the streaming media device. Based on theresponse, it may be determined that the user is within a thresholdvicinity of the streaming media device. One or more user settingscorresponding to the user may be determined. The streaming media deviceor another device may be configured based on the one more user settings.

An additional embodiment is directed to system, apparatus, article ofmanufacture, method and/or computer program product embodiments, and/orcombinations and sub-combinations thereof, for interaction-based useridentification. In a non-limiting embodiment, an apparatus receives aninteraction between a user and a mobile device. The mobile device cancommunicate with a streaming media device. Based on the interaction, anidentity of the user is determined. User settings corresponding to theidentity for the streaming media device are determined. The streamingmedia device is configured based on the user settings.

An additional embodiment is directed to system, apparatus, article ofmanufacture, method and/or computer program product embodiments, and/orcombinations and sub-combinations thereof, for enforcing time limitand/or content restrictions against a user identified as using a mediadevice. In a non-limiting embodiment, an apparatus may automaticallyidentify a user who is using a media device using a network-orientedmethod of user discovery and/or an interaction oriented method of userdiscovery. The apparatus may access preferences associated with theidentified user. The preferences may include time limit restrictionsand/or content restrictions. The apparatus may enforce the time limitrestrictions and/or content restrictions against the identified userwhen using the media device. In an embodiment, the network-orientedmethod of user discovery may be based on BLUETOOTH WIFI, addressresolution protocol, and/or geolocation. In an embodiment, theinteraction or user-action oriented method of user discovery may bebased on voice command, biometric information and/or capacitive sensing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The accompanying drawings are incorporated herein and form a part of thespecification.

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a multimedia environment thatincludes one or more media systems and one or more content servers,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a media device, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a network-based user identification system,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a process for network-based useridentification, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an interaction-based user identificationsystem, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a process for interaction-based useridentification, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating another process for interaction-baseduser identification, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 8 illustrates a storage module that stores information relating touser accounts, wherein the user account information specifies timelimits and content restrictions applicable to users associated with theuser accounts, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for enforcing time limits and content restrictionsfor a user identified as using a media device, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 10 is a more detailed flowchart for enforcing time limits andcontent restrictions for a user identified as using a media streamingmedia device, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example: computer system useful for implementingvarious embodiments.

In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical orsimilar elements. Additionally, generally, the left-most digit(s) of areference number identifies the drawing in which the reference numberfirst appears.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a multimedia environment 102,according to some embodiments. In a non-limiting example, multimediaenvironment 102 is directed to streaming media.

The multimedia environment 102 may include one or more media systems 104and one or more content servers 122 communicatively coupled to a network120. In various embodiments, the network 120 can include, withoutlimitation, wired and/or wireless intranet, extranet, Internet,cellular, Bluetooth and/or any other short range, long range, local,regional, global communications network, as well as any combinationthereof.

Media system 104 may include a display device 106, media device 108, 302and remote control 110. Display device 106 may be a monitor, television,computer, smart phone, tablet, and/or projector, to name just a fewexamples. Media device 108 may be a streaming media device, DVD device,audio/video playback device, cable box, and/or digital video recordingdevice, to name just a few examples. In some embodiments, the mediadevice 108 can be a part of, integrated with, operatively coupled to,and/or connected to display device 106. The media device 108 may beconfigured to communicate with network 120.

A user 112 may interact with media system 104 via remote control 110.Remote control 110 can be any component, part, apparatus or method forcontrolling media device 108 and/or display device 106, such as a remotecontrol, a tablet, laptop computer, smartphone, on-screen controls,integrated control buttons, or any combination thereof, to name just afew examples. In an embodiment, different users 112 may have their ownremote controls 110 (e.g., mobile phones) which may be used to identifywhich user is interacting with the media system 104. Or, for example,multiple users 112 may use or share a particular remote control 110.Then, for example, the various embodiments of user identification asdescribed herein may be used to identify different users 112.

Content servers 120 (also called content sources 120) may each includedatabases to store content 124 and metadata 126. Content 124 may includeany combination of music, videos, movies, TV programs, multimedia,images, still pictures, text, graphics, gaming applications,advertisements, software, and/or any other content or data objects inelectronic form. In some embodiments, metadata 126 comprises data aboutcontent 124. For example, metadata 126 may include associated orancillary information indicating or related to writer, director,producer, composer, artist, actor, summary, chapters, production,history, year, trailers, alternate versions, related content,applications, and/or any other information pertaining or relating to thecontent 124. Metadata 126 may also or alternatively include links to anysuch information pertaining or relating to the content 124. Metadata 126may also or alternatively include one or more indexes of content 124,such as but not limited to a trick mode index.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example block diagram of the media device 108,according to some embodiments, Media device 108 may include a streamingmodule 202, processing module 204, user interface module 206 anddatabase 208.

Now referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in some embodiments, user 112 may useremote control 110 to interact with the user interface module 206 ofmedia device 108 to select content, such as a movie, TV show, music,book, application, game, etc. The streaming module 202 of media device108 may request the selected content from content server(s) 122 over thenetwork 120. Content server(s) 122 may transmit the requested content tothe streaming module 202. Media device 108 may transmit the receivedcontent to display device 106 for presentation to user 112. In streamingembodiments, the streaming module 202 may transmit the content todisplay device 106 in real time or near real time as it receives suchcontent from content server(s) 122. In non-streaming embodiments, mediadevice 108 may buffer or store the content received from contentserver(s) 122 in database 208 for later playback on display device 106.

Network-Oriented Embodiments of User Discovery

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a network-based user identification system300, according to some embodiments. In FIG. 3, a streaming media device302 may identify a user 304 associated with a mobile device 306 over anetwork 310. In an embodiment, streaming media device 302 of FIG. 3 maycorrespond to or otherwise include features similar to those describedherein with respect to media device 108 of FIG. 1. Similarly, in someembodiments, content provider 312 may correspond to content server 122,mobile device 306 may correspond to remote control 110, user 304 maycorrespond to user 112, and/or network 310 may correspond to network120.

Streaming media device 302 may receive content (such as content 124)from one or more content providers 312. Streaming media device 302 maymake the content available to one or more users 304 by displaying orotherwise making available the content for consumption via one moredevices such as televisions, monitors, laptops, mobile phones, tablets,or other audio or display device 106. However, different users 304 mayhave different viewing preferences or settings with regard to whichcontent they prefer and/or how they prefer to consume the respectivecontent. These viewing preferences or settings may be tracked, saved, orotherwise accessed by streaming media device 302 as user settings 314.

In some embodiments, for streaming media device 302 to customize itscontent (such as the content it receives, reads, buffers, recommends orprovides to user 304) and/or operation via user settings 314, streamingmedia device 302 identifies which user(s) 304 are using streaming mediadevice 302 and/or consuming the content.

In some embodiments, a user 304 may manually log in and out of streamingmedia device 302 (including signing in/out of different streamingcontent applications operating thereon) to thereby identify himself tostreaming media device 302. During operation, user 304 may setparticular settings or configure streaming media device 302 based ondifferent user preferences, which may be saved as user settings 314.Thereafter, streaming media device 302 may access the user settings 314for that user 304 to customize its content and operation for the user314.

However, after a user 304 logs into streaming media device 302, the user304 may leave a geographic vicinity of streaming media device 302without notifying (i.e., logging out) streaming media device 302 or theapplications executing thereon. For example, a first user may beginplaying content via streaming media device 302, and a second user maytake over control of streaming media device 302 after the first userleaves the room or geographic vicinity of streaming media device 302.But, because the streaming media device 302 continues to customize itscontent and operation for the first user, the second user's viewingexperience may not be as satisfying. Accordingly, some embodiments ofthis disclosure operate to automatically determine which user(s) 304 arewithin a geographic vicinity of streaming media device 302, and tocustomize its content and operation for those users 304 who are locatedwithin a threshold distance of the streaming media device 302.Accordingly, in the provided example, when the first user leaves and thesecond user enters the room, streaming media device 302, content, and/orone more other devices may be configured based on the user settings 314for the second user and/or other users detected in the room or within athreshold vicinity 318 of the streaming media device 302.

In some embodiments, a network agent 316 may identify which mobiledevice(s) 306 are within a threshold vicinity 318 of streaming mediadevice 302. Streaming media device 302 may assume that the user(s) 304associated with those identified mobile device(s) 306 are using thestreaming media device 302. Accordingly, the streaming media device 302may customize which content is provided and/or how the content ispresented for those user(s) 304 using the user setting(s) 314respectively associated with the user(s) 304. In an embodiment, networkagent 316 may ping the detected device(s) 306 to determine which devicesuser settings 314 should be loaded.

In some embodiments, network agent 316 may transmit a signal over anetwork 310 to detect which mobile devices 306 are within the thresholdvicinity 318. In an embodiment, the signal may be a discovery signal320. Discovery signal 320 may be a signal transmit over network 310 toone or more device(s) communicatively coupled or potentiallycommunicatively coupled to network 310. Network 310 may provide wiredand/or wireless communicative coupling between devices. In anembodiment, network 310 may be a WiFi, local area, wide area, or othernetwork. In another embodiment, network 310 may include a Bluetoothnetwork (or other short range communication coupling) that allows two ormore devices to communicate directly with one another. Network agent 316may be part of streaming media device 302, or may be a standaloneprocessor or device that is communicatively coupled to streaming mediadevice 302.

Network agent 316 may receive a response 322 to discovery signal 320from mobile device 306 via network 310. In some embodiments, the mobiledevice 306 may be within a vicinity or range of the streaming mediadevice 302 to have received the discovery signal 320, or may becommunicatively connected to network 310. In an embodiment, networkagent 316 may determine which user(s) 304 or user settings 314 areassociated with a mobile device 306 based on a response table 323. Forexample, response 322 may include identifying information that may beused to identify mobile device 306 and/or one or more user 304. Forexample, mobile device 306 may return a device identifier code. Networkagent 316 may compare the received code against the data of responsetable 323 to identify which user 304 is registered to the device withthe received code and/or what user settings 314 to load.

Based on response 322, network agent 316 may determine which mobiledevice(s) 306 are within threshold vicinity 318, and for which users304, user settings 314 should be loaded. In an embodiment, if multiplemobile devices 306 are detected within threshold vicinity 318, a union,intersection, or other combination or delineation of user settings 314may be used for the multiple devices 306 (e.g., such as based on arelative priority of the users 304/mobile devices 306). Various exampleembodiments on how a system may respond when multiple mobile devices 306or users 304 are identified within threshold vicinity 318 are describedin U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/813,703 entitled “Detection Of AMobile Device To Identify User Preferences And Provide CustomizedFunctionality Or Content,” referenced above. Or, for example, if nomobile devices 306 are detected to be within threshold vicinity 318,then a default or most-recently used set of user settings 314 may beused.

Discovery signal 320 and/or response 322 may vary depending on thenature or type of network 310 communications being used. For example, inBluetooth communication, discovery signal 320 may be a Bluetooth beacon(e.g., a hardware processor that can transmit or broadcast itsidentifying information to electronic devices within a particular rangeof transmission). In an embodiment, response 322 may be a Bluetoothpairing request from mobile device 306 or a signal indicating thatmobile device 306 is within a pairing range (e.g., threshold vicinity318) of streaming media device 302.

In an embodiment, network agent 316 may be configured to operate as anaccess point (e.g., WiFi access point). When acting as an access point,the network agent 316 may provide one or more user devices 306 accessto, for example, the internet using a wireless network standard such asIEEE 802.11. Additionally, in some embodiments, the network agent 316may operate as a node in, for example, an ad hoc peer-to-peer network.When acting as a node in a peer-to-peer network, one or more userdevices 306 may connect to the network agent using, for example,Bluetooth, Bluetooth LE, or any suitable wireless connection. Thenetwork agent 316 may, in these embodiments, maintain a record of whichmobile devices 306 (if any) are connected to via the network agent 316at any given time. Additionally, in such embodiments, discovery signal320 may be a record that identifies which mobile device(s) 306 (if any)are communicatively coupled to the access point of streaming mediadevice 302.

In an embodiment, network agent 316 may communicate with mobile devices306 using an address resolution protocol (ARP). For example, in ARP,network agent 316 may determine a media access control (MAC) address ofa device registered with or that may have previously interacted withstreaming media device 302. Network agent 316 may transmit discoverysignal 320 with the MAC address of one or more devices. Then, forexample, if the identified device 306 (e.g., with the corresponding MACaddress) is on or otherwise communicatively coupled to network 310 andreceives the signal 320, the mobile device 306 may return response 322to network agent 316 via network 310. In an embodiment, response 322 mayinclude or indicate an internet protocol (IP) address of mobile device306 on network 306. Then, for example, network agent 316 may not onlydetermine mobile device 306 is within threshold vicinity 318, but mayalso communicate directly with mobile device 306 using the IP address.

In an embodiment, if no device responds to discovery signal 320 (e.g.,if no device 306 has or is associated with the indicated MAC address),network agent 316 may try another, different MAC address of anotherknown device 306. In an embodiment, network agent 316 may discontinueprobing for mobile devices 306 as soon as one mobile device 306responds. In another embodiment, network agent 316 may continuetransmitting discovery signals 320 with all known or a threshold orpredetermined number of MAC addresses to determine if multiple mobiledevices 306 are currently communicatively coupled to network 310 or areotherwise within threshold vicinity 318.

In an embodiment, network agent 316 may determine the location orvicinity of mobile device 306 relative to streaming media device 302using geolocation signals. In an embodiment, a geolocation signal may bea global positioning system (GPS) signal. For example, network agent 316may determine GPS data for the position of streaming media device 302using any well known process or technology, and may receive GPS datafrom one or more mobile device 306 (e.g., in response 322) indicating alocation of the mobile device 306. Network agent 316 may calculate adistance between the streaming media device 302 and the mobile devicebased on the differences in the GPS data. The calculated distance can beused to determine whether the location of mobile device is within athreshold vicinity 318 of streaming media device 302.

In an embodiment, a geolocation signal may indicate a location of mobiledevice 306, a location of mobile device 306 relative to streaming mediadevice 302, or a location of mobile device 306 within a building orother structure associated with streaming media device 302. For example,network agent 316 may store data representing a map of different globalpositioning points that delineate different rooms of a house orbuilding, including a location of streaming media device 302 as beingglobally located within one of the rooms. Then, for example, networkagent 316 may compare a GPS received from mobile device 306 against themap to determine in which room mobile device 306 is located. If mobiledevice 306 is determined to be located in the one or more rooms definedby threshold vicinity 318, the corresponding user settings 314 may beloaded.

In some embodiments, threshold vicinity 318 may be an indication ofwhether or not mobile device 306 is within a likely range of interactionwith streaming media device 302. In an embodiment, if a mobile device306 is determined to be within threshold vicinity 318 of the streamingmedia device 302, then user settings 314 for a corresponding, known, orlikely user 304 of the detected mobile device 306 may be accessed andused by streaming media device 302 to customized its content and/oroperation for that user 304.

For example, with regard to geolocation signals, if the location ofmobile device 306 is determined to be within a particular distance(e.g., radius) of streaming media device 302, then the user 304 may bedetermined to be within the threshold vicinity 318 and thus interactingwith streaming media device 302. Then, for example, user settings 314 ofthe user 304 may be used to configure streaming media device 302. In anembodiment, threshold vicinity 318 may indicate a distance from thestreaming media device 302, a relative location (e.g., whether or notmobile device 306 and streaming media device 302 are within the dwellingor same room of a dwelling), or a strength of signal. For example, asignal or connection (e.g., Bluetooth connection) between streamingmedia device 302 and mobile device 306 having a signal strength above apredefined threshold (as specified by the threshold vicinity 318) mayindicate the user 304 associated with the mobile device 306 is using thestreaming media device 302.

Based on the determination that a mobile device 306 is within thresholdvicinity 318, streaming media device 302 may determine which user 304 isassociated with the device 306. For example, a user 304 of mobile device302 may have previously registered with streaming media device 302 orone or more applications operating on or in communication with streamingmedia device 302 (e.g., including an app on mobile device 306)identifying the user 304. Then, for example, based on the identificationof mobile device 306 to be within threshold vicinity 318, thecorresponding user 304 may be identified as a user who is currentlyusing streaming media device 302, and the corresponding user settings314 may be retrieved (e.g., from a memory, from a database, from thecloud, from content provider 312, or from mobile device 306). Or forexample, mobile device 306 itself may have user settings 314 associatedwith it (e.g., based on a previous usage history by one or more usersusing the device 306), which may not be specific to any particular user304.

In an embodiment, mobile device 306 may configure itself differentlywhen it is within threshold vicinity 318 of streaming media device 302,such that mobile device 306 is configured to operate or communicate withstreaming media device 302, including receiving or playing content fromstreaming media device 302. For example, mobile device 306 mayautomatically launch an app operating on mobile device 306, such thatthe app enables mobile device to communicate with streaming media device302. Such communications may include sending commands and receivingcontent. Or, for example, mobile device 306 may automatically mute afinger, such that user 304 is not interrupted by a phone call whilewatching or consuming content via streaming media device 302.

User settings 314 may include any settings associated with identifyingcontent to be provided or recommended to users 304, or how that contentis to be delivered/provided to users 304 (e.g., via streaming mediadevice 302). In an embodiment, the identified user account informationmay be provided to content providers 312 or applications operating onstreaming media device 302 to adjust which content is provided, madeavailable, or otherwise suggested to user 304. Or, for example, usersettings 314 may indicate specific device preferences or settings suchas volume, brightness, hue, or other device settings. Streaming mediaplayer 302 may then adjust its own settings or the settings of one ormore networked devices based on user settings 314. For example,streaming media device 302 may command a stereo to lower its volume, orcommand a monitor to enter theater mode.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a process 400 for network based useridentification, according to some embodiments. Method 400 can beperformed by processing logic that can comprise hardware (e.g.,circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, etc.),software (e.g., instructions executing on a processing device), or acombination thereof. It is to be appreciated that not all steps may beneeded to perform the disclosure provided herein. Further, some of thesteps may be performed simultaneously, or in a different order thanshown in FIG. 4, as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill inthe art. Method 400 shall be described with reference to FIG. 3.However, method 400 is not limited to that example embodiment.

In 410, a streaming media device transmits a signal via a network. Forexample, network agent 316 may transmit discovery signal 320 via network310 to any mobile devices 306 that may be communicatively coupled tonetwork 310. Depending on the type of network connectivity, thecharacteristics of discovery signal 320 may vary. For example, a WiFidiscovery signal 320 may be transmit in a first embodiment, while aBluetooth beacon signal may be transmit in a second embodiment.

In 420, a response to the discovery signal is received from a mobiledevice communicatively coupled to the network. For example, networkagent 316 may receive a response from one or more mobile devices 306indicating that they received the discovery signal 320. In anembodiment, response 322 may indicate a location of mobile device 306(either an absolute location, or a location relative to streaming mediadevice 302). For example, response 322 may include GPS functionalitysuch that it transmits a global positioning signal (e.g., response 322)indicating a location of mobile device 306.

In 430, based on the response of 420, it is determined that the mobiledevice is within a threshold vicinity of the streaming media device. Forexample, network agent 316 in 430 may determine whether mobile device306 is within threshold vicinity 318, and may accordingly determine alikelihood of whether or not mobile device 306 (or user 304) isinteracting with streaming media device 302. Threshold vicinity 318 maybe any indicator of distance, time, or network connectivity that may beused to determine a likelihood of a user 304 (associated with acorresponding mobile device 306) interacting with or consuming contentfrom streaming media device 302. For example, network agent 316 maydetermine whether the (global) position of mobile device 306 is within arange (e.g., radius) of positions indicated by threshold vicinity 318).

Or, for example, if two mobile devices 306 were detected on network 310.Network agent 316 may determine from which mobile device(s) 306 commandshad been received. For example, if commands to operate streaming mediadevice 302 were only received from a first mobile device within theprevious 60 minutes (or other time frame), then only the user settings314 corresponding to the first mobile device may be loaded.

In 440, one or more user settings corresponding to the user aredetermined. For example, if in 430 mobile device 306 is determined withbe within threshold vicinity 318, then in 440 user settings 314 for thatmobile device 306 or the user 304 associated with the mobile device 306may be retrieved. If multiple mobile devices 306 are determined in 430to meet threshold vicinity criteria 318, then user settings 314 for oneor more of those mobile devices 306 may be retrieved and used dependingon the characteristics of the mobile devices 306. For example, in someembodiments, different mobile devices 306 may have different priorities(for example, parents may be assigned higher priorities than children,and priorities may be different for different parts of the day).Accordingly, in such embodiments, the user settings 314 for the highestpriority mobile device 306 may be retrieved in 440. Or, for example, aunion or intersection of user settings 314 may be used in differentembodiments.

In 450, the streaming media device is configured according to the usersettings 314 retrieved in 440. For example, the selection of contentoffered or recommended by streaming media device 302 may be adjustedbased on the retrieved user settings 314. Or, for example,characteristics of different devices may be configured based on theretrieved user settings 314. Such characteristics may pertain to audio,video, and/or other multimedia controls, to name just few examples.

User-Oriented or Interaction-Based Methods of User Discovery

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an interaction-based user identificationsystem 500, according to some embodiments. Some of the features of thesystem 500 may include features similar to those described above withrespect to system 102 of FIG. 1. For example, content 508 and outputdevice 510 of FIG. 5 may correspond to content 124 and display device106 of FIG. 1, respectively.

A user identification processor (UIP) 502 may identify which user 304 iscurrently using mobile device 306. Accordingly, if it is determined thatthe mobile device 306 is within a vicinity of the streaming media device302 (using any embodiment described herein), then it can be assumed thatthe identified user 304 is currently using the streaming media device302. User settings 314 associated with the user 304 may then be accessedto customize the operation of streaming media device 302 for that user304.

Although UIP 502 is shown in FIG. 5 as being a standalone processor ordevice, in other embodiments UIP 502 may operate on mobile device 306,on streaming media device 302, or otherwise operate as an intermediarybetween mobile device 306 and streaming media device 302. In anotherembodiment, the functionality of UIP 502 may be distributed acrossmobile device 306, network 310, and/or streaming media device 302. In anembodiment, the functionality of UIP 502 and network agent 316 may becombined or integrated across one or more devices.

UIP 502 may identify which user 304 is holding or operating mobiledevice 306 based on the user 304's interaction 504 with the mobiledevice 306. Mobile device 306 may be a laptop, remote control, mobilephone, tablet, or other mobile computing device. Interaction 504 may beany user interaction or action with mobile device 306. This may includefor example, holding mobile device 306, pressing one or more buttons oractivating apps on mobile device 306 (which may or may not be commandsfor streaming media device 302), voice commands, readings from one ormore sensors, etc. Based on the interaction(s) 504, UIP 502 maydetermine a user identification (ID) 506 corresponding to a user 304 orlikely user 304 of mobile device 306. The user ID 506 may then be usedto retrieve user settings 314 to customize the operation of streamingmedia device 302.

As just noted, mobile device 306 (e.g., remote control) or UIP 502 maybe equipped with one or more sensors used to identify which user 304 isoperating or handling the mobile device 306. In an embodiment, mobiledevice 306 may include one or more pressure sensors that may be used toidentify a particular user based on the pressure used to grasp oroperate (e.g., push one or more buttons) on remote device 306. Forexample, between two users of mobile device 306, one may press buttonson mobile device 306 with greater or a different (distinguishable) forcethan the other user. Thus, even without a specific profile set up, UIP502 may identify which of several users 304 is operating mobile device306 based on the relative pressure sensed. Similarly, the timing betweenbutton presses may be used to distinguish between different users 304.For example, one user may be more prone to switch channels rapidly,while another user may perform a similar action at a different ordistinguishable speed (e.g., more slowly).

In an embodiment, interaction 504 may be a voice command issued by user304. For example, UIP 502 may be enabled or configured to identify user304 based on previous voice commands or phrases spoken by user 304. Inan embodiment, user 304 may speak a number of different phases thatenable or train UIP 502 to identify the user's voice. For example, UIP502 may prompt user 304 to speak different words or phrases, and analyzethe voice responses to set up a digital profile of a user's voiceprint.That voiceprint may then be used to identify user 304.

In some embodiments, mobile device 306 may have a microphone that maydetect sounds, including the user's voice. UIP 502 may receive thedetected sounds of the microphone, and identify one or more users 304who may be present. In an embodiment, voice samples collected fromand/or voiceprint determined of the user 304 may be stored in the cloudor other memory. For example, UIP 502 may store or have access to adatabase or other storage of previously collected and identified uservoice samples. Sounds collected from microphone may then be comparedagainst the identified samples to determine which users 304 may bepresent. In an embodiment, different users may be identified bydifferent user IDs 506. In an embodiment, UIP 502 may prompt user 304 toconfirm the identification or may otherwise notify the user 304 of theidentification before, during, or after configuration of streaming mediadevice 302 based on corresponding user settings 314. Or, for example,the microphone may periodically “listen” for sounds/voices to transmitto UIP 502 for identification.

In another embodiment, UIP 502 may not have or need pre-stored orpreconfigured voice samples to identify or distinguish amongst differentusers 304. For example, in a particular household, two users may usemobile device 306. Using voice recognition technology, UIP 502 may beable to distinguish between the voices based on various audiocharacteristics (e.g., bass, tone, pitch) of two or more users. Forexample, the voices of a man and a woman, or two men, or three women mayall register differently. Even without a preconfigured identity to matchto the voice, a profile or bin may be set up for each characteristicvoice detected. For example, the viewing habits of the person with thedeep voice may be monitored and stored in their profile. The same may bedone for the person with the higher pitched voice.

Then, for example, IMP 502 may identify the users as being the one withthe deep voice or the one with the high pitch. Based on which user wasidentified, recommended or associated programming or advertisements maybe provided to the user based on the user's corresponding profileinformation. This may be performed with or without specificallyrequiring each user to set up a voice profile. For example, throughmonitoring and machine learning, UIP 502 may determine how many usersare using the system, and create distinguishing profiles for the usersbased on the monitored voice samples.

In an embodiment, UIP 502 may identify voices of multiple users 304 withcorresponding user IDs 506. UIP 502 may then determine that (a) thevoice with the strongest voice signal is the user ID 506 which is usedfor user settings 314, (b) user settings 314 for all the detected usersshould be retrieved and used, or (c) the user settings 314 for a user ID506 with a highest priority is retrieved and used. Interaction 504 maybe a voice command issued to operate streaming media device 302 or aparticular user identification phrase. In an embodiment, UIP 502 maycontinuously or periodically “listen” for voices using a microphone ofmobile device 306 and may dynamically adjust user settings 314 asdifferent users 304 are identified.

In another embodiment, different mobile devices 306 may correspond todifferent users 304. For example, different users 304 may each havetheir own designed remote control or mobile phone. Then, for example,interaction 504 may be a command issued (e.g., through a button press)to streaming media device 302. With the command, mobile device 306 maytransmit a mobile device code or user identifier code that is receivedby UIP 502 and used to identify user ID 506.

In an embodiment, UIP 502 may occasionally or periodically broadcast orprompt any mobile devices 306 within a network range of streaming mediadevice 302 to respond with their respective codes. Then, for example,based on which codes are received, UIP 502 may identify the users 304who are likely to be watching television or otherwise consuming contentfrom streaming media device 302 and may configure streaming media device302 with the appropriate and corresponding user settings 314.

In an embodiment, interaction 504 may include biometric informationdetermined by sensor 505. Sensor 505 may be a biometric scanner orsensor used to determine various biometric features of user 304. In anembodiment, sensor 505 may be a face or fingerprint scanner connected tomobile device 306. From the scanned biometric information, UIP 502 mayidentify a corresponding user ID 506 and load the corresponding usersettings 314 for the identified user 304. Or, for example, mobile device306 may include different buttons or key combinations corresponding todifferent users 304. Then, for example, when a user 304 beginsinteracting with mobile device 306 to control streaming media device302, the user 304 may select or enter the corresponding useridentification button or key combination on mobile device 306. UIP 502may receive the corresponding user code for the selected button or keycombination and may identify the corresponding user ID 506 and/or usersettings 314.

In an embodiment, sensor 505 may be a capacitance sensor with acapacitive sensing capability. For example, capacitance sensor 505 maybe able to measure fluid displacement based on how a user 304 ishandling or holding mobile device 306 (which may be a remote control).Based on the fluid displacement or other capacitance changes, sensor 505or UIP 502 may be able determine or estimate a hand size of the user ordetect which user(s) 304 are likely to be handling mobile device 306.This determination may be made, at least in part, based on a previoususage and identification of user 304 during which mobile device 306detected similar capacitance changes. In an embodiment, sensor 505 maybe an accelerometer used to identify user based on how user 304 ishandling mobile device.

In an embodiment, a combination of sensors 505 may be used to identifyuser 304. For example, a microphone or voice sensor may be used with athermal indicator that may determine the temperature of the hand holdingthe mobile device 306. Then, based on one or more of the sensors 505,UIP 502 may identify the user 304. For example, a first registered user304 may generally have colder hands than a second registered user 304;then, based on the thermal indicator, TAP 502 may identify thecorresponding user 304.

Based on which user(s) 304 or user ID(s) 506 were identified by UIP 502,streaming media device 302 may retrieve the corresponding user settings314 for the identified user 304 or combination of users 304. Aspreviously described, user settings 314 may be used to select whichcontent 508 to make available or recommend to the identified user 304.

Or, for example, user settings 314 may be used to configure one or moreoutput devices 510. Output device 510 may include a computer,television, stereo, or other video, audio, or multimedia equipment.Also, in an embodiment, control of output device 501 may includecontrolling the lighting of a room, which may vary based on differentuser settings 314 or preferences as to how they prefer to watchtelevision or movies in low light or with an abundance of light). Forexample, a first user 304 may prefer to watch movies in low light andtelevision shows in bright light, while a second user 304 may prefer toexperience all content in medium light.

As noted above, in an embodiment, the functionality of UIP 502 andnetwork agent 316 may be combined. Accordingly, for example, a systemmay use multiple, alternative, or a combination of both networked-basedand user interaction-based techniques to identify users 304 in a roomwho may be operating or consuming content from a streaming media orother device 302. Based on this user identification, an enhanced userexperience may be configured for the user(s) 304 based on thecorresponding user settings 314.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart 600 illustrating a process for network based useridentification, according to some embodiments. Method 600 can beperformed by processing logic that can comprise hardware (e.g.,circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, etc.),software (e.g., instructions executing on a processing device), or acombination thereof. It is to be appreciated that not all steps may beneeded to perform the disclosure provided herein. Further, some of thesteps may be performed simultaneously, or in a different order thanshown in FIG. 6, as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill inthe art. Method 600 shall be described with reference to FIG. 5.However, method 600 is not limited to that example embodiment.

In 610, an interaction from a user is received from a mobile device. Forexample, user 304 may issue a command by pressing a button or a voicecommand to streaming media device 302 using mobile device 306. Thereceived command represents interaction 504. Or, for example, mobiledevice 306 may receive sensor input from a sensor 505 such as atemperature gauge, capacitance change, fingerprint, or face scanner asinteraction 504. In another embodiment, user 304 may activate aninteraction sensor 505 on mobile device 306, after which mobile device306 or TAP 502 receives or prompts users 304 for interaction 504.

In 620, an identity of the user is determined based on the interaction504. For example, UIP 502 may compare interaction 504 to storedinformation about previous interactions 504 across one or more devices306 by one or more users 304 to determine a match between interaction504 and stored interactions 504. For example, a voice command or samplefrom user 304 may be compared to previously received and stored voicesamples or a voiceprint, which may be used to identify user 304.

In 630, user settings 314 corresponding to the identified user 304 areretrieved. For example, UIP 502, streaming media device 302, and/ormobile device 306 may identify and retrieve user settings 314corresponding to user ID 506. User settings 314 may correspond tosettings for mobile device 306, streaming media device 302, content 508,and/or output device 510, for example.

In 640, the retrieved user settings are used to configure streamingmedia device 302 and/or other devices, such as output device 510. In anembodiment, the user settings 314 may be retrieved by mobile device 306and provided to an application operating on mobile device 306, which maythen communicate the user settings to one or more of streaming mediadevice 302 or output device 510. Or, for example, user settings 314 oruser ID 506 may be provided to content provider 312, such that contentprovider 312 may provide the appropriate or corresponding content 608 tostreaming media device 302 corresponding to the identified user ID 506.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating another process for network baseduser identification, according to some embodiments. Method 700 can beperformed by processing logic that can comprise hardware (e.g.,circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, etc.),software (e.g., instructions executing on a processing device), or acombination thereof. It is to be appreciated that not all steps may beneeded to perform the disclosure provided herein. Further, some of thesteps may be performed simultaneously, or in a different order thanshown in FIG. 7, as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill inthe art. Method 700 shall be described with reference to FIG. 5.However, method 700 is not limited to that example embodiment.

In 710, an interaction between a user and a mobile device is received.For example, sensor 505 may determine an interaction by and/or biometricreading of user 304. In an embodiment, sensor 505 may determine orreceive interaction 502 after notifying or prompting the user 304 forinteraction 502. In another embodiment, sensor 505 may determineinteraction 502 through normal operation of mobile device 306 by user304 without a particular notification or prompt that interaction 502 isbeing determined or detected.

In 720, an identification of a user of a mobile device based on aninteraction 504 between the user and the mobile device is determined.For example, UIP 502 may receive interaction or sensor reading fromsensor 505. UIP 502 may then compare the sensor reading to previouslydetermined sensor readings that have been determined to be associatedwith particular users. Based on a comparison of the received sensorreadings to the stored previously-identified sensor readings, UIP 502may determine an identity of user 304 as user ID 506.

In 730, user settings 314 corresponding to the identified user 304 areretrieved. For example, streaming media device 302 may retrieve fromlocal storage or receive (e.g., over network 310) or from one or moreother devices user settings 314 corresponding to user ID 506. In 740,the retrieved user settings are used to configure streaming media device302 and/or other devices, such as output device 510. Steps 730 and 740are similar to steps 630 and 640 of FIG. 6.

Time and Content Restrictions Based on User-Identification

The ability to identify the user 304 who is using the media device 108,302 (using any of the embodiments described herein) enables a multitudeof functionality customized to the user 304. As described above, suchcustomization includes selecting content to make available or recommendto the user 304, and/or adjusting the presentation of such contentaccording to the preferences of the user 304. Some embodiments provideother customized functionality as shall now be described.

As shown in FIG. 8, in some embodiments, storage module (database) 208of the media device 108, 302 may store information associated with oneor more user accounts 804, wherein each user account 804 corresponds toa user 304 or a group of users. Each user account 804 may include one ormore preferences 806, such as time limit(s) 808 and/or contentrestrictions) 810. In some embodiments, the time limits 808 specify theamount of time the user 304 associated with the user account 804 isallowed to use components of system 102 such as the media device 108,the display device 106, etc. For example, adult users may have anunlimited amount of time, whereas a child user may have a limited amountof time.

In some embodiments, the content restriction(s) 810 may restrict thetype of content the user 304 associated with the user account 804 isallowed to display using the media device 108. For example, adult usersmay have no content restrictions, whereas a child user may be restrictedfrom displaying PG13, R, NR and/or X rated content.

It is noted that the content restrictions 810 are not be limited tocontent ratings. Instead, in some embodiments, content restrictions 810may be based on type of content, particular movies and/or TV shows,actors, themes, time periods, locations, languages, free or fee based,political, etc., or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, an administrator (such as a parent) may set thevalues of the time limits 808 and content restrictions 810.

The storage module 208 may include a time limit and content restrictionmodule 812. The time limit and content restriction module 812 mayrepresent control logic (such as software) that, when executed by one ormore processors of the media device 108, 302, cause the media device108, 302 to enforce the time limits 808 and/or content restrictions 810associated with the user who has been identified as using the mediadevice 108, 302.

FIG. 9 is a method 902 for enforcing time limits and contentrestrictions for a user identified as using a media streaming mediadevice 108, 302, according to some embodiments. Method 902 can beperformed by processing logic that can comprise hardware (e.g.,circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, etc.),software (e.g., instructions executing on a processing media device 108,302), or a combination thereof. It is to be appreciated that not allsteps may be needed to perform the disclosure provided herein. Further,some of the steps may be performed simultaneously, or in a differentorder than shown in FIG. 9, as will be understood by a person ofordinary skill in the art. Method 902 shall be described with referenceto FIGS. 1 and 8. However, method 902 is not limited to that exampleembodiment.

In 904, an administrator may set time limits and/or content restrictionsfor users who will be using the media device 108, 302. For example,using remote control 110, the administrator may access the user accounts804 for any or all of the users of the media device 108, 302, and setthe time limits 808 and/or content restrictions 810 for those users.

In 906, the media device 108, 302 may identify the user who is accessingthe media device 108, 302, using any of the embodiments describedherein.

In 908, the time limit and content restriction module 812 may cause themedia device 108, 302 to access the user account 804 of the identifieduser, and enforce the time limits 808 and content restrictions 810stored therein against the identified user as he uses the media device108, 302.

In some embodiments, step 908 may be performed according to method 1002shown in FIG. 10. Method 1002 can be performed by processing logic thatcan comprise hardware (e.g., circuitry, dedicated logic, programmablelogic, microcode, etc.), software (e.g., instructions executing on aprocessing media device 108, 302), or a combination thereof. It is to beappreciated that not all steps may be needed to perform the disclosureprovided herein. Further, some of the steps may be performedsimultaneously, or in a different order than shown in FIG. 10, as willbe understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. Method 1002shall be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 8. However, method 1002is not limited to that example embodiment.

In 1004, the time limit and content restriction module 812 may cause themedia device 108, 302 to determine if the user 304 is accessingrestricted content as specified by the content restrictions 810 of theuser account 804 associated with the user 304. For example, in 1004,when the user 304 attempts to use the media device 108, 302 to accesscontent, the media device 108, 302 may determine the rating of thecontent. The media device 108, 302 may determine the rating by accessingmetadata 126 associated with the content 124, or searching the Internet(or other sources) for the rating of the content. Then, the media device108, 302 may compare the rating of the requested content with the user'scontent restrictions 810, to determine if the user 304 is attempting toaccess restricted content. If the user 304 is attempting to accessrestricted content, then 1006 is performed. Otherwise 1010 is performed.

In 1006, the time limit and content restriction module 812 may cause themedia device 108, 302 to block the requested content. For example, in1006, the media device 108, 302 may not request the content from thecontent server 122 or display the content on the display device 806.

In 1008, the time limit and content restriction module 812 may cause themedia device 108, 302 to notify the administrator of the user's requestto access restricted content. For example, in 1008, the media device108, 302 may send an email or text to the administrator. In response,the administrator may instruct the media device 108, 302 to waive therestrictions and allow the user 304 to access the requested content (forexample, the administrator may text back ALLOW to the media device 108,302).

If, in 1004, it is determined the user is not attempting to accessrestricted content, then 1010 is performed. In 1010, the time limit andcontent restriction module 812 may cause the media device 108, 302 toallow the requested content. For example, in 1010, the media device 108,302 may request the content from the content server 122, and display thecontent on the display device 806 as the content is received from thecontent server 122 via the network 120.

In 1012, the time limit and content restriction module 812 may cause themedia device 108, 302 to determine whether the user 304 has reached thetime limits 808 specified in the user account 804 associated with theuser. For example, the media device 108, 302 may maintain a timer of theamount of time the user uses the media device 108, 302.

The time limits may be based on session, day, week, month, or any othertime increment. The time limits may also include individual and/or grouptime limits. For example, the time limits 808 associated with the usermay include a session time limit, a daily time limit, and a family timelimit. If, in 1012, the media device 108, 302 determines that any ofthose time limits have been exceeded, then 1016 is performed, whereinthe media device 108, 302 limits the user's use of the media device 108,302. For example, the media device 108, 302 may discontinue respondingto the user's commands using the remote control 110, and/or maydiscontinue displaying the requested content on the display device 806.Additionally or alternatively, the media device 108, 302 may notify theadministrator (via email or text). In response, the administrator mayinstruct the media device 108, 302 to waive or increase the time limits808 to allow the user 304 to continue to use the media device 108, 302(for example, the administrator may text back ALLOW to the media device108, 302).

If, in 1012, the media device 108, 302 determines that none of the timelimits associated with the user have been exceeded, then 1014 isperformed wherein the media device 108, 302 may allow the user tocontinue to use the media device 108, 302. For example, the media device108, 302 may continue to respond to the user's commands using the remotecontrol 110, and/or may continue to display the requested content on thedisplay device 806.

Example Computer System

Various embodiments and/or components therein can be implemented, forexample, using one or more computer systems, such as computer system1100 shown in FIG. 11. Computer system 1100 can be any computer orcomputing device capable of performing the functions described herein.For example, one or more computer systems 1100 can be used to implementany embodiments of FIGS. 1-10, and/or any combination or sub-combinationthereof.

Computer system 1100 includes one or more processors (also calledcentral processing units, or CPUs), such as a processor 1104. Processor1104 is connected to a communication infrastructure or bus 1106.

One or more processors 1104 can each be a graphics processing unit(GPU). In some embodiments, a GPU is a processor that is a specializedelectronic circuit designed to process mathematically intensiveapplications. The GPU can have a parallel structure that is efficientfor parallel processing of large blocks of data, such as mathematicallyintensive data common to computer graphics applications, images, videos,etc.

Computer system 1100 also includes user input/output device(s) 1103,such as monitors, keyboards, pointing devices, etc., that communicatewith communication infrastructure 1106 through user input/outputinterface(s) 1102.

Computer system 1100 also includes a main or primary memory 1108, suchas random access memory (RAM). Main memory 1108 can include one or morelevels of cache. Main memory 1108 has stored therein control logic(i.e., computer software) and/or data.

Computer system 1100 can also include one or more secondary storagedevices or memory 1110. Secondary memory 1110 can include, for example,a hard disk drive 1112 and/or a removable storage device or drive 1114.Removable storage drive 1114 can be a floppy disk drive, a magnetic tapedrive, a compact disk drive, an optical storage device, tape backupdevice, and/or any other storage device/drive.

Removable storage drive 1114 can interact with a removable storage unit1118. Removable storage unit 1118 includes a computer usable or readablestorage device having stored thereon computer software (control logic)and/or data. Removable storage unit 1118 can be a floppy disk, magnetictape, compact disk, DVD, optical storage disk, and/any other computerdata storage device. Removable storage drive 1114 reads from and/orwrites to removable storage unit 1118 in a well-known manner.

According to an exemplary embodiment, secondary memory 1110 can includeother means, instrumentalities or other approaches for allowing computerprograms and/or other instructions and/or data to be accessed bycomputer system 1100. Such means, instrumentalities or other approachescan include, for example, a removable storage unit 1122 and an interface1120. Examples of the removable storage unit 1122 and the interface 1120can include a program cartridge and cartridge interface (such as thatfound in video game devices), a removable memory chip (such as an EPROMor PROM) and associated socket, a memory stick and USB port, a memorycard and associated memory card slot, and/or any other removable storageunit and associated interface.

Computer system 1100 can further include a communication or networkinterface 1124. Communication interface 1124 enables computer system1100 to communicate and interact with any combination of remote devices,remote networks, remote entities, etc. (individually and collectivelyreferenced by reference number 1128). For example, communicationinterface 1124 can allow computer system 1100 to communicate with remotedevices 1128 over communications path 1126, which can be wired and/orwireless, and which can include any combination of LANs, WANs, theInternet, etc. Control logic and/or data can be transmitted to and fromcomputer system 1100 via communication path 1126.

In some embodiments, a tangible apparatus or article of manufacturecomprising a tangible computer useable or readable medium having controllogic (software) stored thereon is also referred to herein as a computerprogram product or program storage device. This includes, but is notlimited to, computer system 1100, main memory 1108, secondary memory1110, and removable storage units 1118 and 1122, as well as tangiblearticles of manufacture embodying any combination of the foregoing. Suchcontrol logic, when executed by one or more data processing devices(such as computer system 1100), causes such data processing devices tooperate as described herein.

Based on the teachings contained in this disclosure, it will be apparentto persons skilled in the relevant art(s) how to make and useembodiments of this disclosure using data processing devices, computersystems and/or computer architectures other than that shown in FIG. 11.In particular, embodiments can operate with software, hardware, and/oroperating system implementations other than those described herein.

CONCLUSION

It is to be appreciated that the Detailed Description section, and notthe Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpretthe claims. The Summary and Abstract sections can set forth one or morebut not all exemplary embodiments as contemplated by the inventors, andthus, are not intended to limit this disclosure or the appended claimsin any way.

While this disclosure describes exemplary embodiments for exemplaryfields and applications, it should be understood that the disclosure isnot limited thereto. Other embodiments and modifications thereto arepossible, and are within the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Forexample, and without limiting the generality of this paragraph,embodiments are not limited to the software, hardware, firmware, and/orentities illustrated in the figures and/or described herein. Further,embodiments (whether or not explicitly, described herein) havesignificant utility to fields and applications beyond the examplesdescribed herein.

Embodiments have been described herein with the aid of functionalbuilding blocks illustrating the implementation of specified functionsand relationships thereof. The boundaries of these functional buildingblocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of thedescription. Alternate boundaries can be defined as long as thespecified functions and relationships (or equivalents thereof) areappropriately performed. Also, alternative embodiments can performfunctional blocks, steps, operations, methods, etc. using orderingsdifferent than those described herein.

References herein to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an exampleembodiment,” or similar phrases, indicate that the embodiment describedcan include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, butevery embodiment can not necessarily include the particular feature,structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarilyreferring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature,structure, or characteristic is described in connection with anembodiment, it would be within the knowledge of persons skilled in therelevant art(s) to incorporate such feature, structure, orcharacteristic into other embodiments whether or not explicitlymentioned or described herein. Additionally, some embodiments can bedescribed using the expression “coupled” and “connected” along withtheir derivatives. These terms are not necessarily intended as synonymsfor each other. For example, some embodiments can be described using theterms “connected” and/or “coupled” to indicate that two or more elementsare in direct physical or electrical contact with each other. The term“coupled,” however, can also mean that two or more elements are not indirect contact with each other, but yet still co-operate or interactwith each other.

The breadth and scope of this disclosure should not be limited by any ofthe above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only inaccordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer implemented method, comprising:determining a media access control (MAC) address of a mobile device thathas registered with a streaming media device; transmitting, by thestreaming media device, a discovery signal comprising a first addressresolution protocol (ARP) signal including the MAC address over anetwork wherein any devices connected to the network are configured toreceive the discovery signal; determining that no mobile device respondsto the first ARP signal; determining a second MAC address of a secondmobile device that has registered with the streaming media device; andtransmitting a second ARP discovery signal indicating the second MACaddress; receiving, by the streaming media device, a response to thesecond ARP discovery signal corresponding to the second MAC address,wherein the second mobile device is associated with a user of thestreaming media device; determining, based on the response, that thesecond mobile device is within a threshold vicinity of the streamingmedia device; determining one or more user settings corresponding to theuser; and configuring the streaming media device based on the determinedone more user settings.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the receivingcomprises receiving the response from the second mobile device, whereinthe MAC address identifies the second mobile device.
 3. The method ofclaim 2, wherein the determining based on the response comprisesdetermining an internet protocol (IP) address of the second mobiledevice.
 4. The method of claim 3, further comprising transmitting amessage to the IP address of the second mobile device.
 5. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the determining one or more user settings comprises:determining an identification of the user based on sounds received via amicrophone on the user device, wherein the sounds correspond to a voiceof the user.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the transmittingcomprises: determining a plurality of MAC addresses of a plurality ofmobile devices that have registered with the streaming media device; andtransmitting a plurality of discovery signals, wherein each discoverysignal corresponds to one of the plurality of MAC addresses.
 7. Themethod of claim 6, wherein at least one of the plurality of discoverysignals is transmit after receiving the response.
 8. A system,comprising: a memory; and at least one processor coupled to the memoryand configured to: determine a media access control (MAC) address of amobile device that has registered with a streaming media device transmita discovery signal comprising a first address resolution protocol (ARP)signal including the MAC address over a network wherein any devicesconnected to the network are configured to receive the discovery signal;determine that no mobile device responds to the first ARP signal;determine a second MAC address of a second mobile device that hasregistered with the streaming media device; and transmit a second ARPdiscovery signal indicating the second MAC address; receive a responseto the second ARP discovery signal corresponding to the second MACaddress, wherein the second mobile device is associated with a user ofthe streaming media device; determine, based on the response, that thesecond mobile device is within a threshold vicinity of the streamingmedia device; determine one or more user settings corresponding to theuser; and configure the streaming media device based on the determinedone more user settings.
 9. The system of claim 8, wherein to receive,the at least one processor is configured to receive the response fromthe second mobile device, wherein the MAC address identifies the secondmobile device.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein to determine based onthe response, the at least one processor is configured to determine aninternet protocol (IP) address of the second mobile device.
 11. Thesystem of claim 10, wherein the at least one processor is furtherconfigured to transmit a message to the IP address of the mobile device.12. A tangible computer-readable device having instructions storedthereon that, when executed by at least one computing device, cause theat least one computing device to perform operations comprising:determining a media access control (MAC) address of a mobile device thathas registered with a streaming media device; transmitting, by thestreaming media device, a discovery signal comprising a first addressresolution protocol (ARP) signal including the MAC address over anetwork wherein any devices connected to the network are configured toreceive the discovery signal; determining that no mobile device respondsto the first ARP signal; determining a second MAC address of a secondmobile device that has registered with the streaming media device; andtransmitting a second ARP discovery signal indicating the second MACaddress; receiving, by the streaming media device, a response to thesecond ARP discovery signal corresponding to the second MAC address,wherein the second mobile device is associated with a user of thestreaming media device; determining, based on the response, that thesecond mobile device is within a threshold vicinity of the streamingmedia device; determining one or more user settings corresponding to theuser; and configuring the streaming media device based on the determinedone more user settings.